Choose healthy road snacks

You have been working hard lately to get fit and healthy. You’re eating the right foods, exercising regularly and maintaining your mental and physical fitness. Also at a peak are your excitement levels for your upcoming RV trip, and we’re here to tell you, all your hard work will not be going to waste — with these tips, your healthy lifestyle can be maintained while still enjoying your adventure to the fullest.

TAKE REGULAR BREAKS

You already know that sitting for long periods of time is not good for your health, and this is no different when you’re travelling for hours on end in an RV. While we understand you cannot stand and drive, making a point of stopping every two hours to get out of your vehicle and stretch will get the blood flowing. Taking a break for at least 15 minutes every two hours will give you more than enough time to stretch your arms, legs and back, and it will also boost your energy levels and reduce your risk of driver fatigue.

PLAN YOUR MEALS

Before taking off on your adventure, really take the time to plan your meals and snacks. This will allow you to choose wholesome foods that are not only better for your health, but so too your wallet. Fast food, while convenient, can be expensive and high in salt. Foods that are high in salt can increase your chances of swelling, especially when seated for an extended period. Packing a variety of healthy snacks such as fruit, mixed nuts or even hard-boiled eggs will decrease your temptation of eating out and will improve blood sugar regulation. These foods may also support your weight management goals by keeping you satisfied between meals. It is also handy to have plenty of base frozen meals prepared. This will help for those long stretches of travel where you may not have access to healthy produce.

WATER INTAKE

Drinking enough water each day is important for your health. Not only does water benefit your overall hydration, but it also boosts your metabolism and makes exercise more efficient. To help you get enough water, try to carry a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day. If you are going to a restaurant or eating out, try to choose water over a sugary drink — this will help with calorie intake and be cheaper. If you’re having trouble keeping on top of your water intake, there are plenty of useful apps available from both the App Store and Play Store that will send daily reminders for water intake as well as track your water activity.

Make sure you take walking breaks

DAILY EXERCISE

When planning a place to park for a day or two, try to choose a site that offers exercise and daily movement opportunities. For example, look for a site that has a hiking trail or bike path, or perhaps a pool or swimming hole. Just because you cannot get to a gym doesn’t mean you have to forgo your workout routine. Daily movement allows for the strengthening of muscles and will also improve your stability, balance and coordination. As a general goal, try to engage in some form of exercise for at least 30 minutes each day. Remember, if you can’t reach this goal, try 10 minutes instead — any movement is better than none.

GETTING ENOUGH SLEEP

Whether you are at home or in your RV, sleep is crucial to your overall health. You should aim for at least eight hours of sleep per night, but remember, you need to listen to your body. If you need to sleep more, then do so! Getting a good night’s sleep helps you maintain a healthy weight, reduces stress and allows you to think more clearly. The risk of serious health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes can also be lowered by getting enough sleep. A good night’s sleep will also aid muscle growth and repair and will allow you to maintain your physical health and fitness. To ensure you are getting enough sleep at night, one of the best things you can do is try and find a quiet campsite. If you do find yourself in a busy camping ground or caravan park, wear earplugs, as this will help reduce the outside noise. Having a set of blackout curtains or a simple sleep mask will also help reduce the effects of bright lights from well-lit campsites. Lastly, try to go to sleep at the same time each night. While this can be difficult, especially when out of the road adventuring, sleeping at the same time each night strengthens your circadian rhythm and helps your body to run more efficiently.

By following these simple tips, you might even come back from your travels fitter and healthier than you left!

Category: Features
Written: Sat 01 Apr 2023
Printed: April, 2023
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